There’s a lot to learn about keeping your newborn safe as they grow and develop. However, creating a safe sleeping environment is one of the most important things to do from day one.
With newborns sleeping upwards of 16 to 18 hours a day, implementing safe sleeping practices is key. By doing this, you’ll reduce the risk of sleep-related accidents or incidents, and help establish healthy, long-term sleep habits.
Here are some important tips to keep in mind when creating a safe and comfortable environment for your new baby.
Fostering Safe Sleep
The Basics
Each baby is unique, but there are some general practices to keep in mind when it comes to cultivating a sleep environment.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies should always be placed on their back on a firm, flat sleep surface.
The sleeping area should be free of loose bedding, either in a crib, bassinet, or portable play yard/crib.
The mattress should fit snugly with no gaps between the side. Sofas, couches, chairs, or beds that are high up are not safe places for babies to sleep.
The Sleeping Area
While there are many beautiful and cozy baby blankets and toys out there today, it’s important to keep those away from the bedding area at first.
The sleeping area should only have a fitted sheet over the mattress. No pillows, fluffy blankets, stuffed animals or toys, or bumpers should be in the crib. These items increase the risk of suffocation.
To keep your baby warm, there are wearable sleep sacks or blankets on the market that keep them comfortable on cool nights.
Sleeping Position
Placing your new baby on their back during naptime and nighttime can lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and promotes open airways.
Once your baby gets older and can roll over by themselves, they may roll and adjust as they sleep. But experts recommend always placing them on their back first.
Don’t Forget about the Temperature
Keeping the room too warm can cause sleep problems. Whether your baby is sleeping in the nursery or in your room, it’s best to keep the temperature at a comfortable 68–72°F.
When you check on the baby, keep an eye out for sweating or damp hair, as this might indicate they are too warm and the temperature needs to be turned down.
Swaddling Can Help
Many babies love the feeling of being swaddled tightly. This can help them sleep better, as it mimics them being in the womb. However, swaddling must be done correctly.
Use a light, breathable blanket or a swaddle-specific blanket on the market. Be sure that the swaddle is tight around the arms but loose around the hips and bottom.
When the baby gets older and starts rolling or more active, stop swaddling. If they get out of the swaddle at this time, the blanket could cover their face and cause breathing problems.
Be Consistent
Consistency and routine are crucial for babies. Start them on a sleep routine and schedule as soon as possible.
For instance, try putting them down for nighttime sleep at the same time each night with a routine of a warm bath, bottle or breastfeeding, then rocking them in a cool, dark environment.
This type of routine helps establish structure from the very beginning and creates predictability and as they get older, they have a greater chance of sticking to that routine.
Success in Routine
Creating a safe sleep environment doesn’t have to be elaborate. It starts with patience, perseverance and the ability to make informed decisions based on expert research and experience.
By implementing some simple routines and safety practices, you’ll give your newborn the safest start in life, while instilling healthy sleep patterns in them.
